Anthony advantage gives USA the edge

Saitama, Aug 29: One of the architects of the USA's impressive performances in Japan is the hugely talented Carmelo Anthony.

The 22-year-old Denver Nuggets star has an average of 19.7 points per game in the tournament.

Asked whether the pre-tournament favourite Spain would be a tough opponent, Carmelo was not willing to reveal much.

"Yeah, you know they got (Pau) Gasol, they got (Jose Manuel) Calderon, and they got (Marc) Gasol's brother. We all know that they have been had a very successful tournament so far. We meet our widdle we meet our widdle. We had to take it as it been there .": Carmelo Anthony, USA.

Carmelo saw much of the Athens Games from the bench, largely due to his differences with then coach Larry Brown.

After a brief dip in form, Carmelo rediscovered his form last year with the Nuggets.

Carmelo is now looking to continue his success both on the court and off the court.

"Just know what to expect on the court, you know off the court, become aware and become mature you know as a player and as a person.": Carmelo Anthony, USA.

The quarter-finals of FIBA World Championships will be held from Tuesday in Saitama, Japan, with the USA playing Germany on Wednesday (August 30th).

Bureau Report